First playoff wall of text! Let's see how these series will play out...
Eastern Conference
1. Boston Bruins v. 8 Montreal Canadiens
I don't like the way either team is playing right now, but I think Les Habs are falling faster. Bruins in 5.
2. Washington Capitals v. 6. New York Rangers
Two very hot teams going head to head. Should be a fun series to watch, if only for Avery and Ovechkin. It'll be a hard-fought series but with Washington having the Rangers' number most of the season, I'm gonna have to go with Ovechkin and co. Capitals in 6.
3. New Jersey Devils v. 6. Carolina Hurricanes
Brodeur is looking more like Budaj as of late, and these Canes are red hot. The "upset" of the round. I smell a sweep. Hurricanes in 4.
4. Pittsburgh Penguins v. 5. Philadelphia Flyers
Numbers might change by tomorrow, but I don't think home-ice advntage will decide this series. The Pens are very hot coming into the playoffs, and that will be enough to carry them over the Flyers in a hard-fought series. Penguins in 6
Western Conference
1. San Jose Sharks v. 8. Anaheim Ducks
Sharks are a bit shaky as of late, but they still have the skill to hold off the surging Ducks. Sharks in 6.
2. Detroit Red Wings v. 7. Columbus Blue Jackets
The Red Wings have a habit of winning a lot during the regular season before lying down for the last couple of weeks and having an early playoff exit. This is one of those years. Couple that with the fact that Columbus is one of the hottest teams coming in, and you have early reservations at the golf course for Detroit's finest. Blue Jackets in 5.
3. Vancouver Canucks v. 6. St. Louis Blues
Vancouver's play has picked up a bit lately, but an on-fire Blues squad is going to put an end to Sundin's hope for a Cup. Blues in 6.
4. Chicago Blackhawks v. 5. Calgary Flames
Arguably the best feel-good story this season, the Blackhawks look to create a storybook finish, starting with a victory over the underachieving Flames. They've had the Flames number so far this season, and I doubt that will change much. Blackhawks in 5.